Reviewer:
Andrew Moxon
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favoritefavoritefavoritefavorite -
June 13, 2023
Subject:
The Transformative Journey of Ninja Scroll
Rating: ★★★★☆
"Ninja Scroll" isn't just a movie; it is a revelation. A gateway to the endless, captivating, and versatile world of anime that irrevocably turned me into a massive anime fan. This cult classic, directed by Yoshiaki Kawajiri and produced by Madhouse, served as my initiation to the phenomenal realm of Japanese animation, and my life has never been the same since.
"Ninja Scroll" takes you on an engrossing journey set in feudal Japan, filled with ninjas, samurais, and supernatural beings. This spellbinding adventure story is centered around Jubei Kibagami, a wandering swordsman, who gets embroiled in a power struggle between shadowy factions. The narrative, beautifully intertwined with threads of mystery, intrigue, and action, was unlike anything I had experienced before, making it a transformative experience that reshaped my perspective towards storytelling in animation.
The meticulous artistry of the film was simply breathtaking. The classic hand-drawn animation presented a raw and organic quality that accentuated the narrative's gritty and dark tone. The meticulous detailing of each scene, each character, and the environmental design were captivating and only deepened my appreciation of the painstaking craftsmanship that goes into anime production.
What left a lasting impact was the film's rich and multi-dimensional characters, especially Jubei and Kagero. Jubei, the lone wolf with a hidden past, became a symbol of strength, resilience, and moral fortitude. Kagero, the tragic heroine, symbolized both vulnerability and empowerment, giving the narrative a poignant undertone. The antagonists of the Eight Devils of Kimon, with their unique abilities and grotesque designs, added an extra layer of grotesque fascination that was both disturbing and intriguing.
The film's explicit content, marked by violent, bloody battles and mature themes, came as a shock initially. But soon, I realized that these elements were essential parts of the storytelling, enhancing its intensity and emotional depth. This understanding broadened my horizons, enabling me to appreciate the myriad forms of expression in the world of animation beyond the typically sanitized portrayal often seen in Western cartoons.
"Ninja Scroll," with its compelling story, deep characters, and visceral action, provided me with a transformative experience. It was the first stepping stone on my path to becoming a massive anime enthusiast. It expanded my understanding of the limitless possibilities of animation and sparked a lifelong love for this art form.
The film may have its detractors, who point out its graphic content or criticize its plot pacing. But for me, the film's daring boldness and creative freedom were nothing short of inspirational. I have since delved deep into the vast universe of anime, exploring a variety of genres from different eras, but "Ninja Scroll" retains a special place in my heart, serving as a constant reminder of my journey's beginning.
In conclusion, "Ninja Scroll" isn't merely a film—it is a transformative experience. It doesn't just entertain; it challenges and changes you. This movie turned me into an ardent anime fan, and for that, it will forever remain an essential part of my life.
Reviewer:
Spirit of Fire
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February 19, 2023
Subject:
Ninja scroll who uploaded this movie, like seriously
First of all, I am 38 and I have been searching for this movie for year's, and I still remember it line for line, so when I say all the complaints about sound, or anything for that matter is inaccurate I mean it, this looks just like the original classic I fell in love with, the 2 stars is a prank I am just trolling, thank you🙏🏿